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What class of vehicle is a Toyota Highlander?

The Toyota Highlander is a midsize sport utility vehicle (SUV) that offers a blend of practicality, comfort, and performance. As a popular choice among families and adventurous individuals, the Highlander has established itself as a versatile and reliable vehicle in the crowded SUV market.

What is a Midsize SUV?

A midsize SUV, also known as a crossover utility vehicle (CUV), is a type of SUV that falls between the smaller compact SUVs and the larger full-size SUVs. Midsize SUVs typically offer more passenger and cargo space than compact SUVs, while maintaining a more manageable size and better fuel efficiency compared to their full-size counterparts. They often feature a unibody construction, which combines the benefits of a car-like ride and handling with the utility and versatility of an SUV.

Key Features of the Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV that boasts the following key features:

Seating Capacity: The Highlander can accommodate up to eight passengers, making it a popular choice for families and those who need to transport larger groups.

Powertrain Options: The Highlander is available with a range of powertrain options, including a standard gasoline engine, a hybrid variant, and an all-wheel-drive configuration.

Cargo Space: With its spacious interior, the Highlander offers ample cargo room for luggage, sports equipment, and other belongings, making it a versatile choice for both everyday use and weekend adventures.

Safety Features: The Highlander comes equipped with a suite of advanced safety technologies, such as collision avoidance systems, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control, providing a secure and confident driving experience.

These features, combined with the Highlander's reputation for reliability and Toyota's renowned build quality, make it a compelling option in the midsize SUV segment.

Conclusion

The Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV that offers a well-rounded package of practicality, comfort, and performance. Its versatile design, seating capacity, and range of features make it a popular choice for families, adventurers, and those who need a capable and reliable vehicle for their everyday and weekend needs.

What vehicles are in the same class as a Toyota Highlander?

Cars similar to 2025 Toyota Highlander

2025 Toyota Highlander. #2 in Large SUVs.
2025 Toyota Sequoia. #15 in Large SUVs.
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
2024 Kia Telluride.
2025 Ford Explorer. #13 in Large SUVs. Get Your Price.
2025 Honda Pilot. #2 in Large SUVs. Get Your Price.

What year to stay away from a Toyota Highlander?

Years to avoid in the Toyota Highlander include 2003, 2008, 2014, 2015, and 2020 due to common issues like transmission problems, oil leaks, and technology glitches. Other problematic years to consider are 2001-2007 (engine and climate control issues) and 2016-2019 (varying issues including potential oil leaks in some models).

This video discusses problems with the Toyota Highlander from 2020 to 2025, including paint issues: 54sCarnivautoYouTube · Feb 11, 2025
Toyota Highlander years to avoid

2001–2007: Prone to engine overheating, head gasket failures, and climate control issues like AC compressor and blower motor problems.
2003: A big year for issues, particularly engine oil sludge buildup and premature transmission wear, according to Regan Motors Inc and Clutch.
2008: A redesigned model that experienced oil cooler line leaks, which can cause engine damage if not addressed, and lower-quality interior components.
2014: A recall was issued for the second-row seat assembly that may not lock correctly into the seat track, and there were also reports of issues that might be linked to the transmission, says Clutch and Reddit users.
2015: Experienced growing pains from its redesign, with various reports of growing issues, according to Regan Motors Inc and Clutch.
2020: Experienced early transmission and software problems, say Clutch and Reddit users.

You can watch this video to learn more about common problems with the 2020-2025 Toyota Highlander: 51sChris DrivesYouTube · Jul 5, 2025

What is a Toyota Highlander classified as?

A Highlander is a midsize crossover SUV manufactured by Toyota, known for being a versatile and spacious family vehicle with three-row seating. It is available with both a turbocharged gasoline engine and a fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain.

Body style: Crossover SUV, available in both the standard Highlander and a longer, larger Toyota Grand Highlander.
Seating: Typically offers seating for up to eight passengers across three rows.
Powertrain:
- Gas: A 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine is standard on recent models, with all-wheel drive now standard on the 2026 model year.
- Hybrid: A hybrid option combines a 2.5L four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for improved fuel economy.
Functionality: It is designed for a mix of daily driving and family road trips, with features like a decent cargo hold and advanced technology.
Trim levels: Various trim levels are available, such as LE, XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum.

Is a Toyota Highlander a small or large SUV?

Toyota SUV Lineup Overview

Model	SUV Class	Seating Capacity
Land Cruiser	Midsize	5
Highlander	Midsize	7-8
Grand Highlander	Midsize	7-8
Sequoia	Full-size	7-8

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.